OUR STORY
A STORY OF FAITH, LOVE, LOSS AND A CALLING TO SERVE.
On June 14, 2016, April and her sons’ world changed forever when they received the heartbreaking news that Mike had been killed on his police motorcycle. As a law enforcement family, this was a nightmare they never believed would become their reality. When it did, the outpouring of love from family, friends, Mike’s department, neighboring departments, their church, and countless nonprofit organizations was overwhelming in the best possible way. Even now, April and her boys continue to feel that support, and Mike is still honored and remembered by so many. That continued love is one of the greatest blessings to their family as they navigate life with the devastating loss of an incredible husband and father.
April grew up surrounded by stories and photographs of her Grandpa Lu. From a young age, she understood he was a hero who lost his life in a fire, and she treasured every moment when her Nana spoke about her love for him. She also loved when her dad pointed out the belongings around their home that had once been Lu’s. But unlike the support April and her boys received, Lu’s wife and five children had very little help in the 1960s. Times were different, and families like theirs often carried their grief alone. The compassion, resources, and generosity shown to April and her sons are blessings she wishes her Nana, her dad, and his siblings could have experienced. It’s why she is determined to ensure that every first responder and military family has access to that same support if they ever face a similar tragedy or any kind of hardship.
In 2018, April found love again when the Lord crossed her path with David’s. She knew she could only open her heart to someone who would embrace her forever love for Mike and honor the place he holds in her and her boys’ lives. David has done exactly that. He has been April, Josh, and Jason’s biggest supporter in keeping Mike’s memory alive. For years, 3900 Outdoors has been David’s vision, and now the two of them are excited to bring it to life. It will serve as another way to honor April’s husband in heaven, her boys’ dad, and her grandfather, while giving back to other families in the same meaningful way hers has been supported.
You can read more of their story in April’s book,